Vandenberg Ready to Roll; Ranked by ESPN

As we reported earlier, NC State landed 7'0 Australian big man Jordan Vandenberg. The N&O recently caught up with him to talk about his commitment, his plans and his skill set. Vandenberg, coming from AIS (Australia's top prep basketball program) knows that he has a lot of work to do before being ready to bang in the ACC.

“[The ACC] is said to be the hardest competition in college basketball and it is always fierce, fast and strong,” Vandenberg said via email. “I know I will be playing limited minutes until I can fully hold my own physically,” he said.

Once Jordan can add that weight, the staff feels as if he will be a true asset to the front court. With his skill, versatility and height. Vandenberg had this to say:

“I bring length so I would be able to change shots and rebound most importantly,” he said. “I admire most Pau Gasol and Andrew Bogut,” he said. “They are very skilled and versatile big men.”

ESPN also has finally finished evaluating the big Aussie and has given him, what we feel, is a pretty favorable evaluation. This is what they had to say:

Name: Jordan Vandenberg
School: NC State University
Scouts Grade: 84
Evaluation: Jordan is a legitimate 7-footer who plays the game like a European big man. He likes to step away from the basket and shoot jumpshots out to 15 feet. He displays a very nice touch on his jumper and can consistenly knock them down. He is very thin so a Division I strength program will be a big part of his development. Right now he has limited post moves and is not a power player but added strength will help him in this part of his game. He is considered a top 10 center and a top 30 prospect overall among Australia's 2009 prospects. He needs to become more assertive and bring a consistent effort when he arrives at N.C. State next season.

Vandenberg also made front page over at the NBL website where they had this to say.

Checking in at 7-feet and 230 pounds, Vandenberg told PackPride’s on-line radio show that he brings a lot to the table but admit he can still improve as a player.

"I'm left-handed, but I can score with either hand in the paint," he said. "I also feel like I have good post moves and can score out to 10 feet. The things (I) do well is use both hands around the basket, and I am a good shotblocker and can change shots.

"I do need to get stronger and do that quickly. That is what I need to improve the most. I know I'll need to be stronger to play consistently against big men who are 20 or 30 pounds heavier than me. I can also improve my off-the-dribble shots and add more variety in the post.”

Vandenberg is a member of the Australian Emus national junior squad.